Letter: A Conservation-First, Fiscally Sound Path for the former CCW

Dear Editor,

For two years, under Mica Cardozo’s leadership, our town has engaged residents, experts, and stakeholders around a simple question: How do we honor Woodbridge’s love of open space while strengthening our long-term finances? A balanced plan for the former Country Club of Woodbridge (CCW) was formed, and does exactly that.

Conservation leads: Of the 154 acres, over 110 acres remain green and publicly accessible—woodlands, meadows, ponds, and a connected trail network for walking and recreation. The modest development area—approximately 26 acres (less than 20%) is focused mainly on already disturbed land (former clubhouse, pool, parking, and road frontages) where drainage and utilities exist. We revitalize what has been used before while safeguarding the property’s natural core.

A true community asset: The plan envisions waymarked trails and educational signage for families, students, and seniors; habitat restoration and pollinator meadows; cultural and historical features; and welcoming gathering spaces—a pavilion for concerts and a heritage orchard with room for small-scale agriculture. This is everyday nature and recreation for all of Woodbridge.

Fiscally prudent: Adding age-restricted senior cottages gives long-time neighbors a dignified path to age in place near family and friends and does not meaningfully increase school enrollment, helping keep education costs in check. Independent analysis estimates $1.5–$1.9 million in net new annual tax revenue—about 3–4% of the town’s tax base—to support schools, public safety, and roads. By contrast, leaving the property entirely undeveloped would cost taxpayers more than $130,000 each year. This plan turns a community burden into a sustainable, town-wide benefit of which we can all be proud.

Not overdevelopment: It is phased, subject to normal public review, guided by design standards, and rooted in months of community input. It preserves our character, provides real options for seniors to remain here, shares fiscal benefits across the community—and keeps almost all of the undisturbed land open for everyone to enjoy.

After 15+ years of costly inaction, Mica Cardozo has achieved a well-thought-out, balanced, conservation-first plan shaped by diverse stakeholders. I urge my neighbors to support it. It protects what we love about Woodbridge and invests wisely in our future. I urge my neighbors to support Mica. He is delivering actionable solutions that will increase our revenue and control our taxes.